Medzi digitálnou očistou a vymedzením digitálnych hraníc: Odborná pomoc v kontexte digitálnej nátlakovej kontroly v párových vzťahoch
Between Digital Cleansing and Setting of Digital Boundaries: Professional Help in the Context of Digital Coercive Control in Intimate Partner Relationships

Summary/Abstract: This article examines how victims and survivors of technology-mediated violence develop empowerment strategies to regain control in situations where digital technologies serve as both tools of abuse and essential instruments for daily life. The analysis is based on a qualitative study involving group interviews with 18 experts who provide support for persons with experience of violence in Slovakia, in the form of counselling, therapy and advocacy services. The findings reveal two main strategies for dealing with technology-mediated abuse: digital cleansing and setting of digital boundaries. Digital cleansing involves reducing or eliminating technology use; this strategy is often initiated by survivors or recommended by public institutions such as the police. However, the study highlights that this approach may lead to further isolation, responsibilization of the victim and escalating violence. Furthermore, digital cleansing is not possible in situations where the person experiencing violence has children with the perpetrator or where contact with the perpetrator is necessary for the collection of evidence. In contrast, the study advocates setting of digital boundaries as empowerment, consisting of the creation of alternative digital infrastructure that focuses on safe digital participation and maintaining necessary social and professional connections. The results emphasise that professional support must move beyond simplistic “unplugging” advice and instead foster survivors' autonomy and critical awareness of oppressive mechanisms.

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